Display device

Abstract

A display device 1 is provided with a display portion 2 whose display surface 22a is covered with a touch panel 21, a sensor 7 that detects displacement of the display portion 2 caused by operation through the touch panel 21, a solenoid 8 that vibrates the display portion 2, and a control device 10 that is configured to control the solenoid 8. In the display device 1, when displacement of the display portion 2 is detected, the control device 10 vibrates the display portion 2 by the solenoid 8. The display portion 2 is displaceable by the solenoid 8 between a restriction position that restricts displacement thereof and a permission position that permits displacement thereof. The control device 10 holds the display portion 2 at the restriction position, and when operation for operation of the touch panel 21 is detected, causes the display portion 2 to displace from the restriction position to the permission position.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 208461 / 2019, filed November 19, 2019, pursuant to 35 USC 119, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to a display device. Background Technology

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-41289 discloses a force feedback type touch panel device (display device) in which, when an operator (user) operates the touch panel, the display section including the touch panel vibrates to notify the operator that an operation on the side of the device has been detected.

[0005] The touch panel device employs a support structure for the display unit configured to promote vibration of the display unit.

[0006] However, touch panel devices contain components that are susceptible to vibration, such as sensors used to detect pressing operations on the touch panel.

[0007] When a touch panel device is installed in a vehicle or similar device, vibrations caused by vehicle movement act regularly on the touch panel device. Therefore, these regular vibrations may affect components that are susceptible to vibration within the touch panel.

[0008] Therefore, it is necessary to make the effects of vibration difficult to reach the vibration-prone components in force feedback type display devices. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Therefore, the present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems in conventional technology, and the object of the present invention is to provide a display device that can appropriately suppress the effects of vibration.

[0010] This invention provides a display device, comprising:

[0011] A display unit with an operating surface on which the user performs touch operations;

[0012] A sensor that detects the displacement of the display unit caused by the touch operation;

[0013] An actuator that vibrates the display unit; and

[0014] A control device, configured to control the actuator, causes the display unit to vibrate via the actuator when displacement of the display unit caused by the touch operation is detected.

[0015] The display unit can be moved between a limiting position for limiting the displacement of the display unit and an allowable position for allowing the displacement of the display unit by means of the actuator, and

[0016] The control device is configured to hold the display in a restricted position and position the display in an allowed position when a user operation for the touch operation is detected.

[0017] According to the present invention, when a user operation for touch operation is detected, the displacement of the display unit is restricted if the displacement of the display unit is permitted but not detected.

[0018] Therefore, it is possible to appropriately suppress the intermittent vibration of the affected components in the display device. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like parts are indicated by like reference numerals, and wherein:

[0020] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view showing a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 2 (A) is a front view of the display device as seen from the touch panel side according to an embodiment;

[0022] Figure 2 (B) is a front view according to an embodiment showing the position of the main component located on the back side of the touch panel, indicated by the dashed line.

[0023] Figure 3 (A) is an illustration according to an embodiment along Figure 2 (B) is a cross-sectional view of the display device taken by line AA.

[0024] Figure 3 (B) is an explanatory diagram showing the displacement of the spacer in the sensor when the display unit 2 is displaced, according to an embodiment;

[0025] Figure 4 (A) is an illustration according to an embodiment along Figure 2 (B) is a cross-sectional view of the display device taken by line BB;

[0026] Figure 4 (B) is an explanatory diagram showing the arrangement of the sensor's engagement and locking parts when the display unit 2 is displaced, according to an embodiment;

[0027] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating a display device according to an embodiment;

[0028] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the control device in the display device according to an embodiment;

[0029] Figure 7 (A) is a diagram illustrating the operation of the display device according to an embodiment;

[0030] Figure 7 (B) is a diagram illustrating the operation of the display device according to an embodiment;

[0031] Figure 7 (C) is a diagram illustrating the operation of the display device according to an embodiment;

[0032] Figure 8 These are diagrams illustrating a display device according to a variant of the present invention; and

[0033] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating a display device according to a variant of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0034] In the following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, an embodiment of the present invention will be illustrated using a display device 1 (touch panel device) installed in a vehicle and operated by a user as an example.

[0035] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of the display device 1.

[0036] Figure 2 (A) is a front view of the display device 1 as seen from the side of the touch panel 21 and a view showing the position of the liquid crystal display panel 22, the shock absorber 6 and the solenoid 8 located on the back of the touch panel 21, with the position indicated by the dashed lines.

[0037] Figure 2 (B) is a view showing the position of the main component located on the back of the touch panel 21 in the display device 1, indicated by the dashed line.

[0038] like Figure 1 As shown, the display device 1 is provided with a touch panel 21, a liquid crystal display panel 22, a holder 3, a back cover 4, and a printed circuit board 5.

[0039] The display unit 2 according to the present invention comprises a touch panel 21, a liquid crystal display panel 22, and a holder 3. The display unit 2 is supported by a back cover 4 covering the back surface of the display unit 2, and is movable along the thickness direction of the display unit 2.

[0040] Touch panel 21 is a conventional, known touch panel capable of detecting user finger movements. In the plan view, touch panel 21 is formed in a rectangular shape and is large enough to cover the front surface of liquid crystal display panel 22 (see reference). Figure 2 (A)).

[0041] The liquid crystal display panel 22 is a conventionally known liquid crystal display panel, such as a TFT liquid crystal. In the plan view, the liquid crystal display panel 22 is also formed as a rectangle. The front surface of the liquid crystal display panel 22 is the information display surface 22a (reference). Figure 1 Furthermore, the display surface 22a of the liquid crystal display panel 22 is covered by the touch panel 21.

[0042] Figure 3 (A) shows a cross-section of the display device 1, and is shown schematically. Figure 2 (B) is a view of section AA. Figure 3 (B) is a diagram illustrating the displacement of the spacer 72 in the sensor 7 when the display unit 2 is displaced.

[0043] Figure 4 (A) shows a cross-section of the display device 1, and is shown schematically. Figure 2 (B) is a view of section BB. Figure 4 (B) is a diagram illustrating the arrangement of the engagement portion 324 and the locking portion 421 in the sensor 7 when the display portion 2 is displaced.

[0044] It should be noted that in the following description, the meaning will be based on the needs of the audience. Figure 3 (A) illustrates the positional relationship between components in display device 1 using the up and down directions.

[0045] like Figure 3 (A) and Figure 3 As shown in (B), the holder 3 is provided with a bottom wall portion 31 that supports the back of the liquid crystal display panel 22 and a peripheral wall portion 32 that surrounds the outer periphery of the bottom wall portion 31 on its entire outer periphery.

[0046] The peripheral wall portion 32 is provided with a frame portion 321 surrounding the outer periphery of the liquid crystal display panel 22, a decorative frame 322 surrounding the outer periphery of the touch panel 21, and a support portion 323 on which the outer peripheral edge of the touch panel 21 is mounted.

[0047] In the plan view, the peripheral wall portion 32 is formed as a rectangle. The decorative frame 322 is formed to have an opening diameter larger than that of the frame portion 321.

[0048] The support portion 323 is the connecting portion between the frame portion 321 and the decorative frame 322. The support portion 323 extends from the top to the outside of the frame portion 321 and then connects to the lower end of the decorative frame 322.

[0049] In the peripheral wall portion 32, the support portion 323 is disposed along the inner periphery of the decorative frame 322. The support portion 323 is disposed inside the decorative frame 322 and over its substantially entire periphery.

[0050] When the outer periphery of the touch panel 21 is positioned on the support 323, the touch panel 21 will be located inside the decorative frame 322.

[0051] The frame portion 321 of the retainer 3 is inserted into the interior of the peripheral wall portion 42 of the rear cover 4. The rear cover 4 is provided with a bottom wall portion 41 and a peripheral wall portion 42 that surrounds the outer periphery of the bottom wall portion 41 throughout its entire outer periphery. In the plan view, the rear cover 4 is formed into a rectangular shape.

[0052] The peripheral wall portion 42 is shaped to fit into the decorative frame 322 on the side of the retainer 3. When the display device 1 is viewed from the touch panel 21 side, the peripheral wall portion 42 of the back cover 4 is hidden behind the decorative frame 322 on the side of the retainer 3.

[0053] The top end 42a of the peripheral wall portion 42 in the back cover 4 is in the overlapping direction of the retainer 3 and the back cover 4. Figure 3 (A) The upper side of the decorative frame 322 faces the back 322b of the decorative frame 322, with a gap S between them.

[0054] In the plan view, the rear cover 4 has shock absorbers 6 at the four corners of the bottom wall 41 (see...). Figure 2 (A) and Figure 3 (A)).

[0055] The shock absorbers 6 are arranged in pairs along the width direction in each one on one side (left side in the figure) and the other side (right side in the figure) across the center line C1 of the liquid crystal display panel 22.

[0056] The shock absorbers 6 on one side are arranged along the width direction at a position overlapping one side edge 22c of the liquid crystal display panel 22. These shock absorbers 6 are arranged along the height direction ( Figure 2 (A) The vertical direction) is arranged symmetrically across the center line C2 of the liquid crystal display unit 22.

[0057] On the other side, the shock absorbers 6 are arranged along the width direction at a position overlapping the other edge 22d of the liquid crystal display panel 22. These shock absorbers 6 are arranged symmetrically across the center line C2.

[0058] Here, center line C2 is a straight line perpendicular to the aforementioned center line C1 at the center of the liquid crystal display panel 22.

[0059] like Figure 3 As shown in (A), the shock absorber 6 is provided with an elastic member 61 fixed on the bottom wall 41 of the rear cover 4 and a bolt 62 connecting the elastic member 61 and the retainer 3.

[0060] The elastic member 61 is formed of a material with excellent vibration absorption properties, such as rubber. The elastic member 61 is provided with a cylindrical base 601 and a mounting groove 602 provided on the outer periphery of the base 601. The mounting groove 602 is provided on the outer periphery of the base 601 over its entire circumference.

[0061] An opening 410 is provided in the bottom wall portion 41 of the rear cover 4 in the area where the shock absorber 6 is provided. The elastic member 61 of the shock absorber 6 is provided in a part of the opening 410, such that the bottom wall portion 41 is internally fitted into the mounting groove 602 provided on the outer periphery of the base portion 601.

[0062] Bolt 62 extends from the outside of the rear cover 4 to the inside of the cylindrical base 601 on the side of the retainer 3. The front end of bolt 62 is screwed into the leg 312 located in the bottom wall portion 31 of the retainer 3.

[0063] like Figure 2 As shown in (A), in the display device 1, the shock absorber 6 is provided in each of the four regions 1 to 4 defined by two center lines C1 and C2. The shock absorber 6 is arranged sequentially in each of the right-sloping upper region, right-sloping lower region, left-sloping upper region, and left-sloping lower region based on the solenoid 8 (the intersection point P between center lines C1 and C2).

[0064] The retainer 3 is supported by the rear cover 4 via a total of four shock absorbers 6. Therefore, vibrations of the display section 2, including the retainer 3, are partially absorbed by the shock absorbers 6.

[0065] like Figure 2 As shown in (B), when viewed from the shock absorber 6, the sensor 7 is located on the side of the centerline C1.

[0066] like Figure 3 As shown in (A), the sensor 7 is provided with an antenna 71 and a spacer 72.

[0067] Antenna 71 is disposed on surface 5a of the holder 3 side of printed circuit board 5. Through hole 50 is formed in printed circuit board 5 for inserting support tube 311 on holder 3 side.

[0068] Viewed from the holder 3 side, the antenna 71 is formed as a ring to surround the through hole 50.

[0069] The support tube 311 is formed integrally with the bottom wall portion 31 of the retainer 3 and protrudes downward from the rear cover 4 toward the bottom wall portion 41.

[0070] The support tube 311 passes through the insertion hole 50 formed in the printed circuit board 5 in the direction of the bottom wall portion 41 side of the rear cover 4.

[0071] The spacer 72 is fixed to the lower end of the support tube 311 by bolts 73.

[0072] The spacer 72 is provided with a disc portion 721 fixed to the lower end of the support tube 311, a peripheral wall portion 722 surrounding the outer periphery of the disc portion 721, and a flange portion 723.

[0073] The flange portion 723 surrounds the end of the peripheral wall portion 722 on the printed circuit board 5 side (the upper side in the figure) over its entire periphery. When viewed from the printed circuit board 5 side, the flange portion 723 is formed as an annular shape. The flange portion 723 is formed to have an outer diameter approximately the same as the outer diameter r of the antenna 71 described above.

[0074] In sensor 7, flange portion 723 and antenna 71 of printed substrate 5 are arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the thickness direction of printed substrate 5.

[0075] When the flange portion 723 is in contact with the back surface 5b of the printed substrate 5, the flange portion 723 and the antenna 71 are arranged to be spaced apart from each other by a distance L1 in the thickness direction of the printed substrate 5.

[0076] In the display device 1, when the display unit 2 is moved below the rear cover 4 on the bottom wall side by the user operating the touch panel 21, the spacer 72 fixed on the support tube 311 is also moved toward the bottom wall side in relation to the displacement of the display unit 2.

[0077] As a result, the gap between the antenna 71 and the flange 723 widens along the thickness direction of the printed circuit board 5, thereby changing the electrostatic capacitance detected by the sensor 7. Therefore, the displacement of the display unit 2 is detected in the control device 10, which will be described later.

[0078] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the displacement of the display portion 2 is detected by the control device 10 when the flange portion 723 and the antenna 71 are spaced apart by a distance L2 along the thickness direction of the printed circuit board 5.

[0079] The display device 1 is configured such that when the touch panel 21 is operated, the spacer 72 fixed by the bolt 73 is prevented from shifting due to interference with the bottom wall portion 41 of the rear cover 4.

[0080] With the flange portion 723 of the spacer 72 in contact with the back surface 5b of the printed circuit board 5, a gap S1 larger than the possible displacement of the display portion 2 is ensured between the bolt 73 that fixes the spacer 72 and the bottom wall portion 41 of the back cover 4.

[0081] like Figure 2 As shown in (B), in this embodiment, the sensor 7 is located at the four corners of the printed circuit board 5. In the display device 1, the sensor 7 is arranged on four regions 1 to 4, which are respectively defined by two center lines C1 and C2.

[0082] Therefore, even when any area of ​​the touch panel 21 corresponding to the four regions 1 to 4 is operated in the display device 1, the displacement of the display unit 2 caused by the operation of the touch panel 21 can be detected.

[0083] When viewed from sensor 7, support tube 411 is positioned on the side of centerline C1.

[0084] The support tube 411 is integral with the bottom wall portion 41 of the rear cover 4. The support tube 411 is arranged to support the printed circuit board 5 through the rear cover 4.

[0085] A total of four support tubes 411 are arranged on the rear cover 4, and each support tube 411 is located on each of the four regions defined by two center lines C1, C2.

[0086] like Figure 3 As shown in (A), the support tube 411 protrudes upward from the bottom wall portion 41 of the back cover 4 on the side of the printed circuit board 5. Each support tube 411 is formed to have the same height h1.

[0087] The support tube 411 abuts against the back surface 5b of the printed circuit board 5, and the printed circuit board 5 is fixed to the support tube 411 by screws.

[0088] like Figure 2 As shown in (B), an insertion hole 50 is formed in the central part of the printed circuit board 5 to avoid interference with the solenoid 8.

[0089] In addition, positioning holes 51 and cutouts 52 are formed on the printed circuit board 5, and insertion holes 50, positioning holes 51 and cutouts 52 are arranged on the center line C2.

[0090] Ribs 314, formed integrally with the bottom wall portion 31 of the retainer 3, are inserted into the cutout portion 52. For example... Figure 2 As shown in (B), the cutout 52 and the rib 314 are positioned in a symmetrical relationship across the center line C1 of the display device 1 in the width direction.

[0091] Ribs 314 restrict the relative movement between the printed circuit board 5 and the display section 2 along the width direction (left-right direction in the figure) of the display device 1.

[0092] like Figure 4 As shown in (A), a positioning pin 412, which is integral with the bottom wall portion 41 of the rear cover 4, is inserted into the positioning hole 51.

[0093] The surrounding wall 313, which is integral with the bottom wall portion 31 of the holder 3, is inserted into the insertion hole 50 of the printed circuit board 5.

[0094] The abutting portion 83 of the solenoid 8 abuts against the back surface 31b surrounded by the surrounding wall 313 in the bottom wall portion 31 of the retainer 3. The area surrounded by the surrounding wall 313 corresponds to the central region of the present invention.

[0095] like Figure 4 As shown in (A), a recessed portion 413 is formed in the center of the bottom wall portion 41 of the rear cover 4, which is recessed in a direction away from the printed circuit board 5. The solenoid 8 is installed in the recessed portion 413.

[0096] The solenoid 8 has a shaft 82 that moves forward / backward by switching the energization / de-energization of the coil 81.

[0097] A rectangular abutment portion 83 is provided at the end of the printed circuit board 5 side of the shaft 82.

[0098] In the solenoid 8, when no power is supplied to the coil 81, the abutment portion 83 is held in a position abutting against the back surface 31b of the retainer 3 over its entire surface. Furthermore, the spring Sp is inserted into the outer surface of the shaft 82, and the abutment portion 83 also abuts against the back surface 31b of the retainer 3 by the thrust of the spring Sp.

[0099] Therefore, when no power is supplied to the coil 81, the holding force of the solenoid 8 and the pushing force of the spring Sp act on the retainer 3 through the abutment part 83.

[0100] like Figure 4 As shown in (B), the peripheral wall portion 32 of the retainer 3 is provided with a joint portion 324 on the extension line of the bottom wall portion 31.

[0101] The joint portion 324 extends laterally and is provided parallel to the support portion 323. The joint portion 324 and the support portion 323 are arranged to be spaced apart from each other in the thickness direction of the display portion 2 (in the vertical direction in the figure).

[0102] A locking part 421 is provided on the inner periphery of the peripheral wall portion 42 located on the outer side of the joint portion 324, in the region of the peripheral wall portion 42 facing the frame portion 321. The locking part 421 is inserted between the support portion 323 and the joint portion 324.

[0103] like Figure 2 As shown in (B), in the display device 1, locking parts 421 (locking parts 421a, 421b) are arranged on both sides along the width direction (left and right direction in the figure).

[0104] The rear cover 4 is provided with: a wide locking part 421a, which is arranged at a position intersecting the center line C2; ​​and two locking parts 421b, which are arranged on each of the two sides of the rear cover 4 across the center line C2.

[0105] Therefore, the peripheral wall portion 32 of the retainer 3 is provided with a joint portion 324 on the back cover 4 side at a position corresponding to the locking portion 421. When viewed from the touch panel 21 side, the locking portion 421 on the back cover 4 side and the joint portion 324 on the retainer 3 side are arranged in an overlapping position relationship.

[0106] As described above, the shaft 82 of the solenoid 8 is switched on / off by the energizing / de-energizing of the coil 81 in the thickness direction of the display section 2. Figure 4 (A) Move forward / backward in the up / down direction.

[0107] When the coil 81 is not energized, the holding force of the solenoid 8 and the pushing force of the spring Sp act on the retainer 3 through the abutment part 83, and the retainer 3 is pushed upward on the touch panel 21 side.

[0108] Therefore, the retainer 3 is located in a position where the engagement portion 324 provided on the outer periphery of the bottom wall portion 31 is in pressure contact with the locking portion 421 on the side of the rear cover 4 (restricted position) (see reference). Figure 4 (A)).

[0109] In this state, a vertical gap Δt1 is formed between the support portion 323 on the retainer 3 side and the locking portion 421 on the rear cover 4 side, but the retaining force of the solenoid 8 ensures that the engagement portion 324 on the retainer 3 side and the locking portion 421 on the rear cover 4 side are in pressure contact.

[0110] Therefore, the display section 2, which is supported by the retainer 3, is restricted to move not only away from the back cover 4 (upward direction in the figure) but also towards the back cover 4 (downward direction in the figure).

[0111] That is, it restricts the relative movement between the display section 2 and the back cover 4, which are supported by the retainer 3.

[0112] Additionally, when energizing the coil 81, pull the rear cover 4 of the shaft 82 downwards on the bottom wall 41 side. Then, move the retainer 3 from the position where the engagement 324 and the locking part 421 are in pressure contact (see reference). Figure 4 (A) Displaced to a position where the joint 324 is not in pressure contact with the locking part 421 (see reference) Figure 4 (B)).

[0113] In this state, the vertical gap between the support portion 323 on the retainer 3 side and the locking portion 421 on the rear cover 4 side narrows to Δt2. On the other hand, a gap Δt3 is formed between the joint portion 324 on the retainer 3 side and the locking portion 421 on the rear cover 4 side.

[0114] Therefore, relative movement of the display 2 supported by the retainer 3 relative to the back cover 4 is allowed, and the display 2 is allowed to move away from the back cover 4 (upward direction in the figure), and the display 2 is allowed to move closer to the back cover 4 (downward direction in the figure).

[0115] In the display device 1, before a user operation for touch operation of the touch panel 21 is detected, the control device 10 holds the display unit 2 in a restricted position that limits the relative displacement to the back cover 4.

[0116] Additionally, when a user operation for touch operation of touch panel 21 is detected, control device 10 drives solenoid 8 to displace display unit 2 from a restricted position to an allowed position that allows relative displacement to back cover 4.

[0117] That is, the display unit 2 is in the permitted position only when a user operation for touch operation of the touch panel 21 is detected.

[0118] Figure 5 This is a block diagram of display device 1.

[0119] For example, the control device 10 in the display device 1 is located on the liquid crystal display panel 22 (see reference). Figure 1 The display surface 22a displays icons for operating the vehicle-mounted equipment.

[0120] When a user touches an icon on the liquid crystal display panel 22 in the display device 1, coordinate data representing the coordinates of the user's finger touch on the touch panel 21 is input from the touch panel 21 to the control device 10 (see reference). Figure 3 (A)).

[0121] The control device 10 specifies the coordinates on the touch panel 21 touched by the user's finger based on the input coordinate data, and performs processing assigned to the icon displayed at the specified coordinates.

[0122] For example, if the touch icon is an icon for increasing the display brightness of the liquid crystal display panel 22, the control device 10 increases the display brightness of the liquid crystal display panel 22.

[0123] Furthermore, in display device 1, images captured around the display device 1 inside the carriage are input from camera CM to control device 10. Control device 10 detects user operations for operation of touch panel 21 from the input captured images.

[0124] It should be noted that user operations for the operation of the touch panel 21 are detected by an external image processing device different from the display device 1, and can be informed that user operations for the operation of the touch panel 21 are detected from the image processing device.

[0125] When a user operation for touch operation of touch panel 21 is detected, control device 10 drives solenoid 8 to move display unit 2 from the restricted position (see reference). Figure 4 (A) Displace to the allowable position (refer to) Figure 4 (B)).

[0126] As a result, the display unit 2 is able to move relative to the back cover 4, and when the user operates the touch panel 22, the display unit 2 will move towards the bottom wall 41 of the back cover 4 according to the operating force.

[0127] In the display device 1, when the display unit 2 is displaced by the operation of the touch panel 21, the output value of the sensor 7 used to detect the displacement of the display unit 2 changes. When the displacement of the display unit 2 is confirmed by the change in the output value of the sensor 7, the control device 10 drives the solenoid 8 to vibrate the display unit 2.

[0128] Therefore, the vibration of the display unit 2 can notify the user who has operated the touch panel 21 that the input operation via the touch panel 21 has been detected on the display device 1 side.

[0129] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing in the control device 10 within the display device 1.

[0130] Figure 7 (A), 7B and 7C are diagrams illustrating the operation of the display device 1 during the operation of the touch panel 21.

[0131] First, the control device 10 confirms whether there is a user operation for the operation of the touch panel 21, such as whether there is an operation to bring the finger F close to the touch panel 21 (step S101).

[0132] As described above, the captured image is input from the camera CM to the control device 10.

[0133] For example, when the camera CM is positioned to point at the area around the touch panel 21, it can be confirmed whether the user has performed a user operation for the touch panel 21 by performing conventionally known image processing on the captured image input from the camera CM.

[0134] When the user performs a user operation on the touch panel 21 (Yes in step S101), the control device 10 drives the solenoid 8 to move the display unit 2 from the restricted position (see reference). Figure 4 (A) Displace to the allowable position (refer to) Figure 4 (B)).

[0135] When the display unit 2 is in the restricted position, a vertical gap Δt1 is formed between the support portion 323 on the retainer 3 side and the locking portion 421 on the rear cover 4 side. However, the retaining force of the solenoid 8 ensures that the engagement portion 324 on the retainer 3 side and the locking portion 421 on the rear cover 4 side are in pressure contact. Therefore, the relative displacement of the display unit 2 with respect to the rear cover 4 is restricted (see reference). Figure 7 (B)).

[0136] When the display unit 2 is in the permitted position, the gap between the support portion 323 on the retainer 3 side and the locking portion 421 on the rear cover 4 side narrows to Δt2. On the other hand, a gap Δt3 is formed between the joint portion 324 on the retainer 3 side and the locking portion 421 on the rear cover 4 side (see reference). Figure 7 (B)).

[0137] Therefore, relative movement of the display unit 2 supported by the retainer 3 relative to the back cover 4 is allowed, and relative displacement of the display unit 2 relative to the back cover 4 is allowed.

[0138] In this state, when the user presses the display unit 2 with their finger F, the display unit 2 moves towards the rear cover 4 (see reference). Figure 7 (C)).

[0139] Therefore, the control device 10 positions the display unit 2 in the allowed position (step S102), and then confirms whether the display unit 2 has been displaced (step S103).

[0140] In the display device 1, the spacer 72 (flange 723) of the sensor 7 is displaced away from the printed circuit board 5 by the displacement of the display section 2 toward the rear cover 4 (see reference). Figure 3 (A)).

[0141] Therefore, when the distance between the antenna 71 of the sensor 7 and the flange 723 increases from the initial state L1 to L2, the control device 10 determines that the display unit 2 has been displaced (S103).

[0142] At this time, the gap between the support portion 323 on the retainer 3 side and the peripheral wall portion 42 on the rear cover 4 side narrows to Δt2'.

[0143] When the displacement of the display unit 2 is confirmed (yes in step S103), the control device 10 drives the solenoid 8 to vibrate the display unit 2 (step S104). At the same time, when the touched icon is an icon for increasing the display brightness of the liquid crystal display panel 22, the control device 10 increases the display brightness of the liquid crystal display panel 22.

[0144] Thus, the user is informed that the operation of the touch panel 21 is transmitted to the display device 1 as a vibration input.

[0145] Additionally, the control device 10 drives the solenoid 8 to move the display unit 2 from the permitted position (see reference). Figure 4 (B) Displace to the limit position (refer to) Figure 4 (A))(Step S106).

[0146] As a result, the display unit 2 becomes restricted in its relative displacement with respect to the rear cover 4.

[0147] Therefore, the display unit 2 remains in a state where its relative displacement with respect to the back cover 4 is restricted until a new user operation for the touch panel 21 is detected.

[0148] It should be noted that even if the displacement of the display unit 2 is not confirmed until a predetermined time has elapsed after the display unit 2 is in the allowed position (No in step S103), the processing in step S106 is still performed.

[0149] Therefore, even if a user operation for the touch panel 21 is detected, the display unit 2 will not remain in the allowed position if the touch panel 21 is not operated.

[0150] In this way, the display unit 2 is in a restricted position until a user operation for the touch panel 21 is detected, thereby restricting the displacement of the display unit 2. Furthermore, after a user operation for the touch panel 21 is detected, the display unit 2 is in an allowed position only for a predetermined period of time, thereby allowing the display unit 2 to move.

[0151] Therefore, it is possible to detect whether there is displacement of the display unit 2 caused by the operation of the touch panel 21, so that the display unit 2 can be vibrated as needed.

[0152] Therefore, the sensor 7, which is a component susceptible to vibration in the display device 1, is less affected by vibration.

[0153] As described above, the display device 1 according to this embodiment has the following configuration.

[0154] (1) The display device 1 includes:

[0155] The display unit 2 has a touch panel 21 (operation surface) on which the user performs touch operations;

[0156] Sensor 7 detects the displacement of the display unit 2 caused by touch operation via touch panel 21;

[0157] The solenoid 8 (actuator) that vibrates the display unit 2; and

[0158] The control device 10 is configured to control the solenoid 8.

[0159] The display device 1 is a force feedback type display device configured such that when the displacement of the display unit 2 is detected, the control device 10 causes the display unit 2 to vibrate through the solenoid 8, thereby notifying the user who has operated the touch panel 21 that the operation of the touch panel 21 has been detected.

[0160] The display unit 2 can be positioned via the solenoid 8 at a limiting position to restrict its displacement. Figure 4 (A)) and the allowable position for its displacement ( Figure 4 (B)) moves between.

[0161] When a user operation for touch operation of touch panel 21 is detected, control device 10 holds display 2 in a restricted position and positions display 2 in an allowed position, thereby putting display 2 in a state that can vibrate.

[0162] With this configuration, the vibration of the display unit 2 is limited until a user operation for touch operation on the touch panel 21 is detected. As a result, the sensor 7, which is susceptible to vibration in the display device 1, is less affected by vibrations caused by the movement of a vehicle with the display device 1.

[0163] The display device 1 according to this embodiment has the following configuration.

[0164] (2) In the front view viewed from the side of the touch panel 21 (operation surface side), the solenoid 8 is located on the back of the display section 2 in the thickness direction.

[0165] The solenoid 8 supports the back of the display section 2 in the central region and causes the display section 2 to vibrate in the thickness direction of the display section 2.

[0166] Using this configuration, the displacement of the display unit 2 can be performed using a single solenoid 8. However, the increased number of components required to drive the display unit 2 leads to an increase in the manufacturing cost of the display device 1.

[0167] The displacement of the display unit 2 is performed by a single solenoid 8 supporting the back of the display unit 2 in the central region, thereby suppressing the increase in manufacturing cost of the display device 1.

[0168] The display device 1 according to this embodiment has the following configuration.

[0169] (3) The display part 2, which is located in the restricted position, is held in a state where it is pushed against the locking part 421 (locking part) side of the rear cover 4 (fixed side member) by the holding force of the solenoid 8.

[0170] With this configuration, since the solenoid 8 of the vibration display unit 2 can be rotated to limit the displacement of the display unit 2, it is not necessary to separately prepare a solenoid for the vibration display unit 2 and an actuator for limiting the displacement of the display unit 2. As a result, it is possible to suppress the increase in manufacturing cost of the display device 1 while preventing an increase in the size of the display device 1.

[0171] The display device 1 according to this embodiment has the following configuration.

[0172] (4) The solenoid 8 is supported by the bottom wall 41 of the rear cover 4 that houses the display section 2.

[0173] A locking part 421 is provided on the inner periphery of the peripheral wall part 42 surrounding the outer peripheral edge of the bottom wall part 41. The display part 2, located in the permitted position, is supported by the rear cover 4 via a solenoid 8.

[0174] The display unit 2, located in the restricted position, is supported by the rear cover 4 via the solenoid 8 and the locking part 421.

[0175] With this configuration, since the display unit 2, located in the permitted position, is supported by the back cover 4 only by the solenoid 8, the display unit 2 can be quickly moved in association with the user's operation of the touch panel.

[0176] Furthermore, the display unit 2, located in the restricted position, is supported by the rear cover 4 via the solenoid 8 and the locking part 421, thus restricting the relative displacement of the display unit 2 relative to the rear cover 4. Therefore, during the operation of a vehicle equipped with the display device 1, it is possible to appropriately prevent vibrations caused by driving from continuously acting on the display unit 2.

[0177] The display device 1 according to this embodiment has the following configuration.

[0178] (5) In the front view viewed from the side of the touch panel 21, the display part 2 is provided with a joint 324 on each of its one side edge and the other side edge over the entire central area.

[0179] The display unit 2, located in the restricted position, is held in a state where the locking part 421 of the rear cover 4 (fixed side member) is pushed against the joint 324 by the holding force of the solenoid 8.

[0180] Using this configuration, the display unit 2 is displaced in the same direction as the displacement direction (the thickness direction of the display unit) when the solenoid 8 vibrates, thereby enabling the display unit 2 to be displaced between a restricted position and an allowable position.

[0181] The display device 1 according to this embodiment is as follows.

[0182] (6) The display device 1 is equipped with a camera CM for taking pictures of the user.

[0183] The control device 10 determines from the image captured by the camera CM whether there is a user operation for touch operation of the touch panel 21.

[0184] Using this configuration, it is possible to determine appropriately whether there is a user operation for touch operation of touch panel 21.

[0185] Alternatively, for example, by using images captured by a camera that monitors passengers, it can be determined whether there is user operation for the operation of the touch panel 21, so there is no need to prepare a separate camera for determining user operation.

[0186] Therefore, the manufacturing cost of display device 1 can be appropriately prevented from increasing.

[0187] The display device 1 according to this embodiment has the following configuration.

[0188] (7) The sensor 7 is provided with an antenna 71 (fixed part) supported by a printed circuit board 5 on the back cover 4 (fixed side member) side, and a spacer 72 (flange part 723: movable part) that moves together with the display part 2 and changes the distance to the antenna 71.

[0189] The sensor 7 detects the displacement of the display unit 2 by operating the touch panel 21 based on the change in distance between the antenna 71 and the flange 723.

[0190] For example, when the display device 1 is installed on a vehicle, vibrations (external vibrations) caused by the vehicle's movement act on the display device 1. Here, without restricting the displacement of the display unit 2, the external force caused by the external vibration is input to the display unit. Then, the external force also acts on the sensor 7, which is a component susceptible to vibrations in the display device 1.

[0191] Here, since sensor 7 has two relatively moving parts (antenna 71 and spacer 72), the detection of sensor 7 may be affected in some cases when these two parts continue to move relative to each other due to continuous input vibration.

[0192] With the configuration described above, when it is not necessary to detect the displacement of the display unit 2, the relative movement of the two components constituting the sensor 7 can be limited. Therefore, since the relative movement of the two components due to continuous input vibration can be prevented, the detection of the sensor 7 is less susceptible to vibration.

[0193] The display device 1 according to this embodiment has the configuration described above.

[0194] (8) In the front view of the display unit 2 as seen from the side of the touch panel 21, the rectangular display unit 2 is supported on the bottom wall 41 of the rear cover 4, which is a fixed side member, by shock absorbers 6 arranged at the four corners.

[0195] In the display device 1, the shock absorber 6 is disposed in each of the four regions 1 to 4 defined by two center lines C1 and C2.

[0196] The display unit 2, supported by the shock absorber 6, can be displaced in the thickness direction, and the vibration caused by the displacement of the display unit 2 in the thickness direction is damped by the shock absorber 6.

[0197] With this configuration, the vibration of the display unit 2 is partially absorbed by the shock absorber 6. As a result, the vibration of the sensor 7, which is a component susceptible to vibration in the display device 1, can be suppressed.

[0198] [Variation Example]

[0199] In the above embodiment, an example is given of determining whether there is a user operation for the operation of the touch panel 21 by using an image captured by the camera CM.

[0200] The method for determining whether a user operation exists for the operation of the touch panel 21 is not limited to this method.

[0201] For example, in the case of a touch panel that detects changes in electrostatic capacitance, touch panel 21 can determine whether there is a user operation for operation of touch panel 21.

[0202] For example, if the detection sensitivity of the touch panel 21 can be switched, the following method can be used.

[0203] The control device 10 switches the detection sensitivity of the touch panel 21 between a first detection sensitivity for detecting the approach of a user's finger toward the touch panel 21 and a second detection sensitivity lower than the first detection sensitivity for detecting touch operations on the touch panel 21.

[0204] When the display unit 2 is in the restricted position, the control device 10 sets the detection sensitivity of the touch panel 21 to the first detection sensitivity, and when it detects that the user's finger is close to the touch panel 21, it changes the detection sensitivity of the touch panel 21 from the first detection sensitivity to the second detection sensitivity.

[0205] Therefore, when the control device 10 detects the user's finger approaching the touch panel 21, the display unit 2 is displaced from the restricted position to the allowed position, thereby enabling the appropriate detection of the touch operation.

[0206] Thus, the display device 1 according to the variant example has the following configuration.

[0207] (9) The detection sensitivity of the touch panel 21 can be switched between a first detection sensitivity for detecting the proximity of a user’s finger toward the touch panel 21 and a second detection sensitivity lower than the first detection sensitivity for detecting touch operations on the touch panel 21.

[0208] When the display unit 2 is in the restricted position, the control device 10 sets the detection sensitivity of the touch panel 21 to a first detection sensitivity. When a user's finger is detected approaching the touch panel 21, the detection sensitivity of the touch panel 21 changes from the first detection sensitivity to a second detection sensitivity. Additionally, the display unit 2 moves from the restricted position to the permitted position.

[0209] Using the same configuration, it is possible to determine whether there is a user operation for the operation of the touch panel 21.

[0210] Furthermore, vibration of the display unit 2 is limited until a user operation for touch operation of the touch panel 21 is detected. This makes it difficult for the sensor 7, a component susceptible to vibration in the display device 1, to be affected by vibrations caused by the movement of the vehicle on which the display device 1 is mounted.

[0211] [Variation Example 2]

[0212] Figure 8 It is an exploded perspective view based on another variant of the display device 1A.

[0213] Figure 9 This is a front view of the decorative panel 90 of a display device 1A according to another variant.

[0214] In the above embodiment, the case where the operating surface for the user to perform a touch operation is the touch panel 21 is exemplified.

[0215] The present invention can also be applied, for example, to a display device 1A that detects a user's touch operation by using a membrane electrode 91.

[0216] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the display device 1A has a decorative panel 90 on a surface (operation surface) 90a on which multiple icons MK are printed. The decorative panel 90 is installed in a user-operable position, such as on a dashboard in a vehicle.

[0217] The decorative panel 90 is supported on the back cover (not shown) by a shock absorber (not shown), and in this state, the decorative panel 90 is supported so that it can be displaced in the thickness direction of the decorative panel 90 (in the same manner as in the above embodiment).

[0218] The decorative panel 90 is formed of a non-conductive material, and the membrane electrode 91 and the printed substrate 92 for detecting touch operations are located on the back of the decorative panel 90.

[0219] It should be noted that since the other components in display device 1A are the same as those in display device 1 described above, their description is omitted here.

[0220] An opening 901 is provided in the central part of the decorative panel 90 for mounting the liquid crystal display panel 22.

[0221] Multiple operating areas with optional functions are arranged on the surface of the decorative panel 90 (operating areas R1 to R12: refer to...). Figure 9 In the decorative panel 90, each of the operating areas R1 to R12 is configured to have a predetermined area, and the thickness of each operating area R1 to R12 is configured to be thinner than the other areas.

[0222] Therefore, the operating areas R1 to R12 can be displaced in the direction opposite to the membrane electrode 91 (the thickness direction of the decorative panel 90), and when a user touches any of the operating areas R1 to R12, the touched operating area is displaced in a direction closer to the membrane electrode 91.

[0223] Each operating region R1 to R12 has a film electrode 91 disposed on the printed circuit board 92 side. The film electrode 91 is made of flexible FPC (flexible printed circuit) and includes a base film 910 and a terminal portion 911 extending from the base film 910 to the printed circuit board 92.

[0224] Multiple transparent or semi-transparent electrodes 91a are arranged on the surface of the base film 910 on the decorative panel 90 side. The multiple electrodes 91a are arranged one-to-one on the operating areas R1 to R12 of the decorative panel 90. The multiple electrodes 91a and the multiple operating areas R1 to R12 face each other and are spaced apart in the thickness direction of the decorative panel 90.

[0225] In the display device 1A, when any operating area is touched, the touched operating area shifts towards the membrane electrode 91 to change the positional relationship between the operating area and the electrode 91a. This change in positional relationship between the operating area and the electrode 91a can be detected as a change in the electrostatic capacitance of the electrode 91a.

[0226] The control device 10 in the display device 1A determines whether there is a touch operation in the operation area corresponding to each electrode 91a based on whether there is a change in the electrostatic capacitance of each electrode 91a.

[0227] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown in the plan view, sensors 7 are respectively arranged at the four corners of the printed circuit board 92 in the display device 1A. Sensors 7 are sensors with the same configuration and function as sensors 7 in the display device 1 described above.

[0228] Sensor 7 is configured to detect displacement of the decorative panel 90 after a touch operation in the operating area of ​​the decorative panel 90.

[0229] Furthermore, in the decorative panel 90, the solenoid 8 abuts against the back of the decorative panel 90 corresponding to the area between the operating area R1 and the operating area R7. The solenoid 8 is also a sensor with the same configuration and function as the sensor 7 in the display device 1 described above, and is driven by the control device 10 provided in the display device 1.

[0230] The solenoid 8 causes the decorative panel 90 to move between a permissible position that allows the decorative panel 90 to vibrate and a limiting position that limits the vibration, and the solenoid 8 causes the decorative panel 90 to vibrate when a touch operation is confirmed on the operating area.

[0231] Similarly, in the display device 1A with this configuration, the vibration of the decorative panel 90 is limited until a user operation for touching the panel 21 is detected. As a result, the sensor 7, which is a component susceptible to vibration in the display device 1A, is less affected by vibration.

[0232] As described above, the display device 1A according to the variant example has the following configuration.

[0233] (10) The display device 1A includes:

[0234] Decorative panel 90, which is operated by touch by the user and has multiple operating areas R1 to R12 arranged on its operating surface;

[0235] The membrane electrode 91 (electrode sheet) includes a plurality of electrodes 91a arranged one-to-one to face the operating regions R1 to R12 respectively;

[0236] Sensor 7 detects the displacement of the decorative panel 90 through the user's touch operation;

[0237] Solenoid 8 (actuator) causes decorative panel 90 to vibrate; and

[0238] The control device 10 is configured to control the solenoid 8.

[0239] Display device 1A is a force feedback type display device configured such that when displacement of the decorative panel 90 is detected, the control device 10 causes the decorative panel 90 to vibrate via the solenoid 8, thereby notifying the user who has operated the operating area in the decorative panel 90 that the operation of the operating area has been detected.

[0240] The decorative panel 90 can be moved between a limiting position that restricts its displacement and a permissive position that allows its displacement via the solenoid 8.

[0241] The control device 10 holds the decorative panel 90 in a restricted position and, when a user operation for the operation of the decorative panel 90 is detected, moves the decorative panel 90 from the restricted position to an allowed position.

[0242] In addition, this configuration can appropriately prevent vibration from affecting components such as the sensor 7, which are susceptible to vibration in the display device 1.

[0243] Although only selected embodiments and variations have been chosen to illustrate the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art, based on this disclosure, that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Furthermore, the foregoing description of embodiments and variations according to the invention is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0244] List of reference numerals

[0245] 1.1A Touch Operation Device

[0246] 2 Display Section

[0247] 21 Touch Panel

[0248] 22 LCD display panel

[0249] 3. Holder

[0250] 31 bottom wall

[0251] 311 support tube

[0252] 312 Legs

[0253] 313 Surrounding the wall

[0254] 314 Ribs

[0255] 32. Perimeter wall

[0256] 321 Frame Section

[0257] 322 Decoration Department

[0258] 323 Support section

[0259] 324 Joint

[0260] 4. Back cover

[0261] 41 Bottom wall

[0262] 42. Perimeter wall

[0263] 421 (421a, 421b) Locking section

[0264] 5 Printed substrate

[0265] 50 Insertion Hole

[0266] 51 positioning holes

[0267] 52. Notch

[0268] 6 Shock absorbers

[0269] 61 Elastic Components

[0270] 62 bolts

[0271] 7 sensors

[0272] 71 antennas

[0273] 72 spacers

[0274] 723 Flange

[0275] 73 bolts

[0276] 8 Solenoids

[0277] 81 coil

[0278] 82 shafts

[0279] 83 Butt

[0280] 10. Control device

[0281] CM camera

[0282] L1, L2 interval

[0283] C1, C2 center lines

[0284] P intersection point

[0285] S, S1 gap

[0286] Sp spring

Claims

1. A display device, comprising: A display unit with an operating surface, on which the user performs touch operations; A sensor that detects the displacement of the display unit caused by the touch operation; An actuator that causes the display unit to vibrate; as well as A control device is configured to control the actuator, wherein when displacement of the display unit caused by the touch operation is detected, the control device causes the display unit to vibrate via the actuator. The display unit can be moved between a limiting position for limiting the displacement of the display unit and an allowable position for allowing the displacement of the display unit by means of the actuator, and The control device is configured to hold the display in the restricted position to prevent external forces caused by external vibrations from being input to the display, and to position the display in the allowed position only when a user operation for the touch operation is detected.

2. The display device according to claim 1, further comprising: A camera captures images of the user, wherein the control device detects the user's actions for the touch operation from the images captured by the camera.

3. The display device according to claim 1, wherein, The operating surface includes a touch panel that covers the surface of the display unit. The touch panel's detection sensitivity can switch between a first detection sensitivity and a second detection sensitivity. The first detection sensitivity is used to detect the user's finger approaching the touch panel, and the second detection sensitivity is used to detect the touch operation on the touch panel. The second detection sensitivity is lower than the first detection sensitivity. When the display unit is in the restricted position, the control device sets the detection sensitivity of the touch panel to the first detection sensitivity; as well as When a user operation for the touch operation is detected, the control device changes the detection sensitivity of the touch panel from the first detection sensitivity to the second detection sensitivity and positions the display unit at the allowed position.

4. The display device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The operating surface includes a non-conductive panel with multiple operating areas, and the display device further includes: The electrode sheet has a plurality of electrodes arranged one-to-one facing the operating area.

5. The display device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, In a front view showing the display unit as seen from the operating surface side, the actuator supports the back of the display unit and causes the display unit to vibrate along the thickness direction of the display unit.

6. The display device according to claim 5, wherein, The display unit located in the restricted position is held in a state where it is pushed against the locking part in the fixed side member by the holding force of the actuator.

7. The display device according to claim 3, wherein, In a front view showing the display unit as seen from the operating surface side, the display unit has a joint portion on each of one side edge and the other side edge spanning the central region of the display unit, and The display portion located in the restricted position is held in a state where the engagement portion is pushed against the locking portion of the fixed side member by the holding force of the actuator.

8. The display device according to claim 3, wherein, The sensor 7 includes: a fixed part supported on a fixed side member; and a movable part that moves together with the display part and changes its distance from the fixed part. The sensor detects the displacement of the display unit caused by the touch operation based on the change in distance between the fixed part and the movable part.

Images